SUMMARY

Los Tlacos, also known as Cartel de la Sierra de Tlacotepec, was a Mexican criminal group formed in 2017 by former members of the General Community Police Heliodoro Castillo (Policía Comunitaria General Heliodoro Castillo). The group had a strong presence in the center and northern region of Guerrero state, on the border with the states Puebla and Morelos, especially in the municipalities of Iguala, Chilpancingo, Zumpango and Chichihualco.

Although the group emerged as a defense group to protect its community from criminal organizations, it started operating as a cartel as it got involved with the distribution of drugs in this part of the region. With its new purpose, Los Tlacos started battling other groups for control drug trafficking in the region.

Onésimo Marquina Chapa "El Necho" was identified as the group's leader. As part of attempts to broaden its influence, Los Tlacos forged an alliance with Jalisco Cartel New Generation.

Los Tlacos has been involved in the non-state category of UCDP organized violence.